Excessive exposure to noise at work can cause noise-induced hearing loss, which is a permanent but preventable condition. Over time it can cause permanent hearing loss, make communication difficult, increase stress levels, and put your overall safety and wellbeing at risk. Left unaddressed, it can affect productivity, confidence and even contribute to early retirement.
Let’s look at some important steps you can take to protect hearing in the workplace
-Recognise early warning signs:
This includes ringing or buzzing in the ears, muffled hearing after shifts, or difficulty understanding speech. Taking action early can prevent further damage.
-Control noise at the source:
Use quieter tools and machinery where possible. Maintain and replace equipment to prevent excess noise, and introduce barriers, enclosures, or quiet areas. Limit access to high-noise zones.
-Manage exposure:
Rotate staff, plan noisy tasks carefully, and provide regular breaks to reduce prolonged exposure.
-Use hearing protection correctly:
Provide suitable earplugs or earmuffs, ensure correct fit/comfort, train staff on proper use, and replace worn or damaged PPE.
-Monitor and support:
Enforce use of hearing protection along with carrying out regular noise assessments, provide hearing tests where required, and encourage early reporting of symptoms.
If you require help, guidance or support on any health & safety matter, please contact us on info@capital-people.co.uk
As Head of Safety, Health, Environment & Fire (SHEF), Mark leads our Safety & Health — Training & Consultancy business. Having run his own consultancy and training business in this field for 14 y... Read More
